By Kenny Teng
BANGKOK, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered provincial governors to strictly enforce the law and swiftly deport foreign nationals who exploit or threaten Thai people, as authorities intensify a crackdown on illegal activities involving foreigners.
Anutin, who is also Interior Minister, said he had signed an Interior Ministry announcement establishing a deportation mechanism to enable more decisive action against foreign nationals who violate Thai laws or whose behaviour is deemed undesirable.
“I understand that tourists coming here generate spending and investment in Thailand, but that does not mean they can take advantage of us or use investment funds to engage in illegal activities,” he said during a meeting to monitor the implementation of Interior Ministry policies on Thursday.
He instructed governors and district chiefs to strictly enforce the law against nominee networks, fraudulent businesses, illegal land ownership, unauthorised employment and foreign nationals using Thailand as a base for criminal activities.
Anutin also directed governors to intensify efforts against illegal drugs and work closely with district chiefs and provincial police commanders to ensure effective enforcement.
He stressed that Thailand remained open to legitimate tourists and foreign investment, provided foreign nationals respected Thai laws, customs and traditions.
His remarks came amid increased scrutiny of foreign nationals and businesses in major tourism destinations, including Phuket and Koh Samui, following incidents involving foreign visitors and disputes over business and property activities.
Public attention has particularly focused on Israeli tourists in recent weeks, although Thai authorities have stressed that enforcement applies to foreign nationals regardless of nationality.
On Sept 10, hundreds of protesters led by former media mogul Sondhi Limthongkul gathered outside the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok, demanding action over alleged misconduct by some Israeli nationals.
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow also held discussions with Israeli Ambassador Alona Fisher-Kamm over concerns surrounding the conduct of some Israeli nationals in Thailand.
Earlier this month, Anutin ordered the deportation of an Israeli national convicted of threatening a zoo owner on Koh Samui, marking the first reported use of Thailand’s new 2026 deportation regulations.
-- BERNAMA